"Restrain the stomach, and you will enter paradise," said the 19th Century Russian Bishop Ignatius Brianchaninov. While this may be true elsewhere, it couldn't be further from the truth here in Bangkok (no offence Bishop!). On the contrary, to eat in moderation or watch the waist in The Big Mango would be to miss out on what is - without exaggeration - a food-lover's paradise. Our advice: don't even bother trying. Judging by the amount of people pleasing and pampering their stomachs on every street-corner, no one else does!
And is it any wonder? From local Thai cuisine to gastronomic imports, Bangkok offers more Eating Experiences than you can shake a meat stick at. This means it's more than well-equipped to satisfy the desire to eat more than one needs. And if you had no intention of pigging out, you soon will. Bangkok's restaurants, street food and plentiful food courts have a cunning knack for leading astray even the most calorie-conscious; knocking them off the path to sensible, controlled eating and onto the joyous road signed 'Gluttony'.
For proof, begin on the streets. Once there, breathe in deeply and there it'll be: a riot of mouth-watering smells drifting down the street. This aromatic form of advertising will tease and tempt the nostrils, leaving you drooling like the mangy street dog next to you. Show your gratitude by marching right up and purchasing the street food culprit, usually some grilled meat, fish or dry noodle dish. Having devoured these blissful bites, stop by and nibble on Thai fruits - even a glutton should vary their diet. Then, for good measure, delve into the multi-coloured, many-textured Thai desserts. The streets covered - all for what'll amount to little more than pocket change - visit some of the city's great restaurants, taking a short detour via a food court. If you fancy filling your face with more cosmopolitan bites, head for an International restaurant or wrap your choppers round a Chinese mooncake or some hot, steaming morsels of Dim Sum.
PS: If you do get sent to the gates of hell for your eating antics, take comfort from the fact that the entire population of Bangkok will be queuing up with you.
If your not stuffed full of sin after pigging out, get your teeth round some Envy, Greed, Lust, Pride, Anger or Sloth. |
